POLICE: Maryland man left child unattended in car while gambling in Harrington

Tuesday

Sep 2, 2014 at 11:38 AM

A 26-year-old Maryland man, Justin K. Middleton, is facing charges after allegedly leaving a 14-month-old girl in his vehicle while gambling at Harrington Raceway and Casino.

By Staff reports

A 26-year-old Maryland man is facing charges after allegedly leaving a 14-month-old girl in his vehicle while gambling at Harrington Raceway and Casino.

A casino patron noticed the car was running in the casino parking lot around noon on Sept. 1 and spotted the baby in a car seat behind the front passenger’s seat. The patron notified a manager, who called police, and troopers responded to the scene at about 12:05 p.m., said Delaware State Police spokesman Master Cpl. Gary Fournier.

Troopers gained access into the vehicle, which was unlocked, and removed the 14-month-old girl. Fournier said she did not appear to be in distress or need medical attention.

Justin K. Middleton, of Preston, Md., responded to a page put out in the casino for the owner of the vehicle at about 1:30 p.m. He was arrested and Fournier said he initially denied leaving his daughter in the car.

He later recanted his story and told troopers he left the baby in the car while he was inside gambling, Fournier said.

The 14-month-old was turned over to a relative in the Harrington area until the mother could arrive to take custody, Fournier said.

Middleton is charged with first-degree reckless endangering, unattended motor vehicle and parking in a handicapped space. He was being held at the James T. Vaughn Correctional Center on a $2,505 secured bond. A no-contact order was issued with his daughter.